A park in Glasgow, known among some visitors as ‘Ratland’, has recently been the centre of attention due to an alarming increase in rat sightings, particularly around Cyprus Duck Pond. Footage captured by local resident Liudmila Ignat shows several rats foraging for food, raising concerns for many families who frequent the area. This incident, which occurred on the evening of March 26, has prompted frustrations and worries as children are seen playing nearby.

Liudmila’s video depicts around ten rats congregating near a pile of discarded bread, seemingly unbothered by the humans in close proximity. Her family’s stroll through the historic park turned unsettling as they encountered this significant presence of rodents. The footage has gained traction on social media and has been shared with Glasgow Live, highlighting the growing discontent among visitors.

This recent event follows a similar occurrence last November when another visitor, Anna, reported seeing approximately 40 rats consuming leftover bird food at the same location. Anna expressed her concerns over the growing rat population, stating, “My toddler loves watching the ducks, but I no longer feel comfortable here.” She added that they regularly encounter rats in the dog play area, with this particular day being the worst they had witnessed.

The rise in rodent activity in Glasgow parks is reflective of broader infestation issues afflicting the city. Investigations have indicated a sharp increase in complaints related to pests such as rats, cockroaches, and bedbugs since 2019, with Glasgow noted as the worst affected area in Scotland. Reports attribute over 100 hospitalisations to pest-related complications, raising significant public health concerns.

Data obtained through Freedom of Information requests reveals a concerning escalation in pest complaints across Scotland, rising from 22,967 in 2019 to 31,557 in 2023. Glasgow has also seen its figures surge from 4,383 to 7,790 during the same period. The actual number of infestations could be even higher, given that some housing associations and councils do not keep accurate records or have declined to provide information.

Despite the evident problem, Glasgow City Council does not currently track pest complaints specifically pertaining to social housing. In response to the crisis, the council last month disclosed a £7 million investment aimed at employing 359 additional staff across various sectors, including pest control and waste enforcement.

A spokesperson for Glasgow City Council addressed the rising issues in parks, stating, “This issue has been exacerbated by individuals leaving food for wildlife. Despite warnings, these actions continue.” The council has erected signs advising against feeding wildlife, but these have been removed, leading to plans for more permanent notices to be installed.

In terms of pest control measures, the spokesperson cautioned against deploying bait in open areas due to risks posed to wildlife, pets, and people. They emphasised the importance of visitors properly disposing of food waste in designated bins and noted that Kelvingrove Park is maintained daily by council staff.

As concerns over rodent populations persist, the community continues to grapple with the implications of rising pest numbers in public parks and other areas in Glasgow, highlighting a growing need for effective solutions to address the situation.

Source: Noah Wire Services